Month: April 2016

Robert Luo treads the boards at Newtowns’ Oscillate Wildly .Here are Robs’ top recommendations for the best local eating & drinking in Sydney!

Where do you go for coffee before work/after work/not at work?

Coffee Alchemy is one of the best coffee roasteries hiding in the industrial side of Marrickville. From single origin to house blend, there is always something for everyone, especially the serious coffee drinker. The Workshop, located in the heart of Sydney, is definitely one of the best coffee shops you can find in the city. Perfect for morning pick-me ups. Located just outside the city in Newtown, T-Totaler is an unusual place to get a caffeine fix. It is a teashop, tea bar or just an oasis in the Newtown. Do check out their ‘cocktail’ that is made with tea as well as the tea and cake degustation.

Favourite places for breakfast and brunch?

The Henson Park Hotel in Marrickville is a family and dog friendly pub that serves great value and high quality food. Not to mention the delicious selections of beers and spirits. Also located in Marrickville, the Marrickville Pork Roll is an icon in the Sydney food scene, must try! The long established Malaysian hawker-style eatery, Malay-Chinese Takeaway, is famous for its laksa soup. Get in early to avoid the lunch crowd.

Favourite Sydney restaurants for special occasions?

Modern Japanese restaurant takes on Japanese Izakaya. Cho Cho San in Potts Point offers food that is simple but packed with flavour. The restaurant boasts one of the most comprehensive Sake selections in town. Porteno in Surry Hills is definitely worth the line-up. The wait is worth it, Porteno offering some of the best Argentinean barbecue available. Quick tip is to get there before 6pm, as they don’t take bookings for small groups. In the city, Rockpool est. 1989 is the best example of East Meets West. Classic Asian flavours combined with European cooking techniques. The restaurant itself is stunning and elegant.

Best bars to head to after work and on your days off?

The Baxter Inn is the best place in Sydney to explore whisky from around the globe. Eau de Vie in Darlinghurst offers mind blowing cocktails paired with a great atmosphere. Also in Darlinghurst, Love, Tilly Devine is a wine bar that offers a great selection of wine by the glass.

Where do you go for fresh, seasonal produce and market bargains?

The Marrickville Organic Food and Farmers Market has a good range of food stalls as well as fresh food and vegetable. It also has a great sense of community. Flemington’s Paddy’s Markets is the hub for Sydney hospitality fruit and vegetable supply and is a great place to meet the farmers and suppliers. The Olympic Continental Delicatessen & Butchery in Bankstown is a Greek deli that has been operated for over 60 years. Very traditional deli with a great range of products. All small goods are produced in house.

And finally, where have you had the best interstate dining experiences?

Vue de Monde in Melbourne is a creative and interactive dining experience. It also offers a stunning view of the Melbourne city. Also in Melbourne is MoVida, a small cosy restaurant that serves up some delicious tapas. It is a great place to refuel after exploring some of the best street art in Melbourne. Brae in regional Victoria is a must! Away from the city buzz, relax and enjoy one of the best culinary journeys guided by chef Dan Hunter and his team. It is definitely worth the drive.